How To Choose Between Two Wedding Venues
How to Choose Between Two Wedding Venues
In love with two wedding venues and can’t decide which one to choose? We know the feeling! We created a handy checklist to go over when deciding between two venues to hopefully make your special day a little less stressful.
Wedding Venue Checklist: Choosing the Right Space
Choosing the right wedding venue might be more challenging that you thought! Often, a couple will feel indecisive because they love two venues. So, how do you decide which one is for you? Fortunately, we put together a checklist to help you choose between two wedding venues.
Convenience of the Venue Location
An important feature of a wedding venue is the location. Is the venue located in a spot that is difficult to find or far away from where all your guests are staying? It’s definitely helpful to consider that a handful, maybe more, of your guests could be traveling from out of town. Here are some venue location factors to take into consideration:
· How easy is it for guests to get in and out of the venue?
· Is there enough parking for guests and are the parking lots near the venue?
· Does the venue offer ADA accessibility?
· Are there ample hotels and other lodging available for guests nearby?
· How far away is the venue? Does it require travel dates?
Price of the Venue
Another big factor for couples choosing a venue is the cost. If you love both venues, but one venue is a little bit more affordable, then it would make sense to choose the one that best fits your budget.
It’s super important to make sure you understand all the fees associated with the venue. Ask for a price breakdown that includes service charges and taxes to ensure you understand what everything will cost. Also, ask the wedding venue what is included in your package, what the price per person will be, if there will be any labor costs associated with setup and breakdown. Here are some really helpful questions that we get often from our clients:
· Are there any fees included for early/late setup and take down?
· Which venue offers a full bar?
· Do both venues include food during the cocktail reception?
· Do both venues include furniture for rent?
· How many courses are included in dinner?
· Is music and sound setup included?
Wedding Venue Vibe + Design
When deciding on your perfect venue, it is important to find a location that fits with your vision, vibe, and aesthetic. Ideally, the idea you have in your head (or on your Pinterest board) can come to life at this venue! Be sure to reflect on what you want your wedding to look like, what vibe feels good to you, and what type of ambiance you desire.
Wedding Venue Reputation
Which venue has the best reviews or came to you via a referral from a close friend? It’s really helpful to do a little research on what other clients experience of the venue was. Was it the venue’s professionalism, support, and/or way they personalized the experience? Some wedding venues, such as the venues we offer here at Moniker Events, will also provide you with a dedicated on-site wedding coordinator who oversees all aspects of your wedding day.
Wedding Date
At this point, you probably already have the perfect date picked out for your wedding. If you are deciding between two venues, make sure that that date is available. Also, if that date happens to be during a certain season, be sure to consider local weather, availability of hotels, and seasonal decorations. If you are choosing between a destination wedding and one more local and closer to home, weighing in those factors is helpful.
Wedding Venue Communication Level
Which wedding venue is more communicative, responsive, and professional? When you initially tour a venue pay attention to how you are treated. Clear communication and organization are key parts to putting on a wedding, so you want to make sure you receive the level of responsiveness and attention from the on-site salesperson that makes you feel comfortable.
This is a good indicator of how helpful the salesperson and team will be during the wedding planning and celebration.
Wedding Venue Amenities
Does one wedding venue offer more amenities than the other? Are there certain amenities that you would absolutely love to have? Here are some amenities to take into consideration:
· Decorations
· Indoor/outdoor setting
· Food
· Lighting
· Reception layout
Final Considerations
Remember that selecting a wedding venue can be a long process, so be sure to consult with your loved ones if you need additional input on various venues. You can always make a list of pros and cons as well when determining which venue is the right one for you, your partner, and your wedding to be. Regardless of the venue, it will be the best day ever!
Be sure to check out our San Diego wedding venues here at Moniker Events online. We would love to schedule a tour with you and show you around.